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Stampede Royalty Changes Emphasize Youth Development

June 5, 2008

Calgary, AB --- The Calgary Stampede today announced significant changes to its Royalty program that will strengthen the personal and professional development of its young goodwill ambassadors.

"Over the past six decades, these young women have been outstanding representatives for the Stampede and the city of Calgary," said Stampede Royalty committee chair Deb Ward. "We are taking new steps to ensure their year as an ambassador not only is a positive and unique experience, it also provides training and tools that will help them achieve their goals in life."

One key initiative is the introduction of an education scholarship for each member of the Royal Trio. Ward said this initiative goes hand-in-hand with the shift in the timing of the program. The Royal Trio will now be selected in October, rather than April, with their reign ending after the Calgary Stampede each summer, which is ideal timing for those wishing to resume or start post-secondary studies in the fall.

"With a year of travel commitments, these young women often must step back from full-time studies or work," said Ward. "We hope these scholarships will support and encourage their continued educational interests after their reign is complete."

As well, new resources to support public speaking will be added to the development program. Each year, the members of the Royal Trio make nearly 400 special appearances and speak with thousands of Calgarians and international visitors of all ages. With additional training and support, the Queen and Princesses will have new opportunities to share their passion for the Stampede and community involvement. The candidate selection process will continue to evaluate interpersonal skills, western values and equestrian capabilities.

To fulfill the role of Stampede ambassadors in the weeks leading up to, and after, the 2008 Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Stampede has called upon six past royalty representatives: Caia Morstad (2007), Amanda Byrne (2007), Lauren MacLennan (2005), Justine Milner (2005), Coleen Crowe (2005), and Trina Percival (2003).

"The year is a lot of fun, but most importantly it provides many opportunities for personal growth," said Milner. "The experience increased my confidence in public speaking and presenting myself, taught me how to apply social skills in a variety of settings with all kinds of diverse people, and also helped me improve my time management abilities."

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Applications for the 2009 Royalty Contest will be accepted until Friday, August 22, 2008 (application and information available at calgarystampede.com/royalty). A new Royal Trio will be crowned for a one-year term on October 5, 2008 on the final Sunday of the new Canadian Rodeo Tour Championship (CRTC), being held at the Corral on Stampede Park.

The 2008 Calgary Stampede Indian Princess pageant has also moved to September and is working with the Stampede Royalty committee to enhance its ambassador training. Details will be announced shortly.

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